Qdoba plans nearly 40 new locations across country
The nation’s second-largest fast-casual Mexican chain is continuing to grow its footprint in several key states.
Just weeks after announcing a plan to open 30 new locations in North and South Carolina, Qdoba Mexican Eats will open 39 new locations across major markets in the United States, led by franchise operators Cafua Management Company and Mountain View Management and other experienced franchisees. The expansion plans further the chain’s aggressive growth strategy aimed at doubling its footprint to 1,500 units over the next seven years.
"Joining Qdoba presents a great opportunity to be part of a leading Mexican fast-casual brand known for its innovative, high-quality, and flavorful menu offerings,” said Rick Albert, CEO of Mountain View Management. “I'm pleased with Qdoba's commitment to fresh, customizable ingredients and its dedication to providing a top-tier dining experience. The brand's strong performance and tremendous growth potential make it an ideal choice for expansion, aligning well with my vision for franchise success."
Leveraging their success with Dunkin’ franchises, Rick Albert and Mark Cafua are expanding with five new Qdoba restaurants, some of which are planned for Lebanon, Mount Pocono and Stroudsburg, Pa. The team is planning further expansion in Pennsylvania, New Hampshire, and other markets complementary to Cafua Family operations.
[READ MORE: Qdoba launches cash incentive program for franchisees]
Additional franchisees leading Qdoba’s latest developments include:
- Rojo Caliente Restaurants, an existing franchisee with six locations, has committed to building two more locations in Reno, Nev. and the surrounding market.
- Q. Carolina Restaurants plans to build nine additional locations throughout Charlotte and Raleigh, N.C., adding to their 11 existing restaurants.
- Q. Mex, LLC in Portland, with nine current restaurants, will develop four more in the Portland, Ore. area.
- Building on their success as a former Wingstop franchisee, Golden Maize Restaurants, LLC will open five locations in Westchester County, New York.
- Maruti Group, new franchisees in Chicago who operate Dunkin’ and Jimmy John’s franchises, will develop six restaurants in Will and Kendall County, Illinois.
- Bhatt’s Group in Northern Virginia, operators of several franchise brands, will join the Qdoba family upon opening three restaurants in the Greater Washington D.C. and Hagerstown, Maryland area.
- Existing Qdoba franchisee Metro Management Group will expand their portfolio with five additional locations throughout the Washington D.C. area.
“We have experienced 14 consecutive quarters of positive same-store sales, and our brand averaged a 4.1% comps growth over the past two decades, with company-owned average unit volumes increasing to nearly $1.6 million in 2023,” said Jeremy Vitaro, chief development officer at Qdoba. “This consistent performance, combined with our robust support system and strategic incentives, makes Qdoba a highly attractive opportunity for franchisees. We’re thrilled to partner with experienced operators who share our commitment to quality and growth, and we look forward to expanding our footprint across the country.”
Based in San Diego, Qdoba operates more than 760 locations in the U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico.
